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Mako Shark Characteristics

Isurus oxyrinchus


 















DESCRIPTION: The Shortfin Mako, shown here, is known to offshore anglers as, simply, “Mako.” The Longfin Mako, Isurus paucus, is less often caught. Both have a huge mouthful of bulging teeth that are long and pointed. The Makos are blue above and white below.

SIZE: Range is 200-600 pounds, but both species can weigh more than 1,000 pounds. World record 1,115 pounds; Florida record 911 pounds, 12 ounces

FOOD VALUE: Excellent; comparable to Swordfish.

GAME QUALITIES: Considered by many big-game anglers as deserving of rank among the big Billfishes.

TACKLE AND BAITS: Ocean trolling tackle, in at least the 30-pound line class. Usually will strike rigged baits, such as Mullet and Mackerel, or a live Bonito.

FISHING SYSTEMS: Trolling; Drift Fishing.

RANGE: All Florida coasts; most often seen in Southeast Florida, the Bahamas and the Caribbean.

HABITAT: The open sea. Shortfin Makos frequently cruise, and strike at, the surface, whereas the Longfin is almost entirely a deep dweller.

 

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There is more information on this and other sport fish in "Sport Fish of Florida." This handy book features 231 species, all illustrated in full color. Also included for each fish are detailed ranges, habitats, game quality, food quality and record sizes.



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